South Australia is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world. In the southern Adelaide and Fleurieu Peninsula region, the most common species we see are Brown Snakes, Black Snakes, and occasionally Tiger Snakes. Each summer, our team at McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery treats pets from McLaren Vale, Willunga, Aldinga, Myponga, Kuitpo, Seaford Heights, Mt Compass and surrounding areas who have had frightening encounters with snakes.
Knowing how to protect your pets, what to look for, and what to do if your pet is bitten can make all the difference in saving a life.
Why Snakes Are More Active in Summer
Snakes are ectothermic, which means they rely on warmth from their surroundings to regulate their body temperature. As the weather heats up, snakes become more active — which is why snake bite cases peak in summer.
However, snakes are never truly gone. Even during cooler months, they can still be found sheltering under wood piles, debris, or fallen logs. Staying alert year-round can help protect your pets.
What Is Snake Envenomation?
Snake envenomation occurs when a venomous snake injects venom into its victim through a bite. The severity of symptoms depends on the type of snake, amount of venom, and your pet’s size, species, and health.
At McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery, our veterinarians have extensive experience diagnosing and treating snake envenomation in dogs, cats, and even livestock such as horses and cattle.
Signs of Snake Bite
Recognising the signs early can be life-saving. If your pet shows any of the following symptoms, seek emergency veterinary attention immediately:
Sometimes, a pet may collapse suddenly and then appear to “recover.” This is a classic sign of envenomation — the venom is already in the system, and urgent veterinary treatment is critical.
What to Do if Your Pet Is Bitten
If you suspect your pet has been bitten:
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Stay calm and keep your pet as still as possible to slow the spread of venom.
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Do not try to catch or kill the snake. It is dangerous and unnecessary.
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Get to your nearest vet immediately. Call ahead if possible, so the clinic can prepare antivenom.
Diagnosing Snake Envenomation
At McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery, we use several diagnostic tools to confirm snake bite:
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History and clinical signs – Access to snakes and observed symptoms may be enough to diagnose envenomation.
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Coagulation testing – Snake venom often interferes with normal blood clotting.
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Muscle enzyme testing – Blood tests can reveal severe muscle breakdown caused by venom.
Treatment for Snake Envenomation
Prompt veterinary treatment can be life-saving. Depending on the severity, treatment may include:
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Antivenom administration – Neutralises circulating venom.
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Intravenous fluids – Helps blood circulation of antivenin, maintain hydration, and flush out muscle breakdown in order to protect the kidneys.
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Pain relief and supportive care – Some venom can cause massive muscle breakdown, which is extremely painful.
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Hospitalisation – Animals can suffer the effects of venom for days to weeks after being bitten. Hospitalisation is often needed to provide support until they are strong enough to go home.
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Ventilation support – Envenomation results in muscular weakness and paralysis. If severe enough, the muscles involved in breathing also become paralysed. Ventilation support may be required in these animals to save their lives.
Preventing Snake Bites
While snake bites can’t always be avoided, you can greatly reduce the risk:
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Keep your pet on a leash during walks, hikes, or outdoor adventures, especially in areas known to have venomous snakes.
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Clear your yard of debris, brush, and other potential hiding spots for snakes.
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Avoid letting your pet roam unsupervised in areas where snakes are likely to be present. This includes keeping cats inside or in cat enclosures.
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Snake mesh placed around the outside of your yard can help to prevent snakes entering your yard. If netting is used, a snake may become entangled in the netting and a snake catcher will need to be called to remove the snake.
If you see a snake on your property, contact a licensed snake catcher rather than trying to remove it yourself.
We’re Here to Help
If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a snake, time is critical. Please call McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery immediately for advice and emergency treatment.
Our compassionate and experienced team is here to provide life-saving care for pets across the Fleurieu Peninsula.